Youth groups benefit from Sheriff’s awards’ night

Cash has been awarded to 51 projects from the High Sheriff of Northumberland Youth Awards Fund at the Community Foundation.

High Sheriff Peter Loyd presented the grants at a ceremony at Alnwick Castle as he comes to the end of his year’s service.

He said: “I’d like to thank all the young people for their hard work during my shrieval year.

“The fund supports young people in recognition of their good work in the community and I would like to thank everybody who donated to the fund in 2013/14.

“I am proud that the young people of Northumberland make our county such a great place to live.”

Among those receiving awards were Riding For The Disabled Association, based at Tranwell, which picked up £1,250, Barnabas Safe and Sound, from Morpeth, which received £800, and Hadston House Youth and Community Projects, which claimed £750.

Morpeth Amateur Swimming Club and Morpeth Baden-Powell Scout Group each received £500.

Countywide organisations to benefit included Choysez, Broomley Grange Training, Conference and Camping Centre of the Boys Brigade, and Positive Futures, which all received £850, Northumbria Volunteer Police Cadets, which was handed £800, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, which was given £750, and Northumbria Army Cadet Force and South East Northumberland Magistrates’ Court, which each received £500.

The ceremony was attended by more than 200 adults and young people, with entertainment provided by Northumbria Army Cadet Force Pipes and Drums and Highland Dancers, and an address by explorer Conrad Dickinson.